How to Get a California Government Job

Government work isn’t for everybody.

It involves bureaucracy - a lot of it. The hiring process is maddeningly time-consuming and complex. And no one ever earned $10 million dollars working for the DMV.

But the work, if you can get it, is steady. There is something to be said for job security. Pension programs are few and far between in the private sector these days, and where else can you get Columbus Day off? Maybe best of all, you can combine your training and your passion. If you’re an accountant by day and an environmental warrior by weekend, you could be an accountant for Cal EPA.

But deciding to work for the government is the easy part. The real challenge is navigating the hiring process, which includes websites as well as webs of tests and requirements.

The state created a website outlining the necessary steps to get hired. There is also a handy page letting you know just how many jobs are open in your area. Currently, California is hiring for 90 positions in Los Angeles County, 38 for Alameda, 49 for San Diego and Orange, 47 for Riverside, and 703 in Sacramento, naturally.

Current job openings with California state departments

• Cal Fire Battalion Chief positions in Riverside, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, San Bernardino, Alameda, Sacramento for $4827.00 - $6104.00
• Air Pollution Specialist in Sacramento for $4343.00 - $8404.00
• Assistant Director of Dietetics for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Napa County for $5113.00 - $6400.00
• California Community Colleges Graphic Designer in Sacramento for $4565.00 - $5716.00
• State Air Resources Board Air Resources Supervisor in Los Angeles County for $9215.00 - $11537.00
• Accounting Officer at Napa State Hospital in Napa County for $4016.00 - $5029.00
• Information Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Los Angeles County for $5553.00 - $6901.00

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